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Food Service · Missouri

How to Become a Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria in Missouri

Cooks, Institution and Cafeterias in Missouri earn a median salary of $30,920/year, which is 15% below the national average. Missouri has a state income tax of ~2.2%. After taxes and rent, a cooks, institution and cafeteria takes home approximately $772/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$31K
Median salary in Missouri
-15%
vs. national average
2.2%
State income tax
13,310
Employed in Missouri

What a cooks, institution and cafeteria can afford in Missouri

Gross annual salary$30,920
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 2.2% state tax)$2,184/mo
Median 2BR rent (Missouri)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home64.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$30,920/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$772/mo

Becoming a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Missouri

1

Meet education requirements

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria positions in Missouri typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Missouri. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many cooks, institution and cafeteria positions in Missouri require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Missouri licensure or certification

Missouri may require specific licensing or professional certification for cooks, institution and cafeterias. Requirements vary by state — contact the Missouri Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Missouri

Missouri employs 13,310 cooks, institution and cafeterias. The highest concentrations are in St. Louis and Kansas City.

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary by metro area in Missouri

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
St. Louis$35K$16.96/hr5,560
Kansas City$35K$16.71/hr4,340
Cape Girardeau$32K$15.29/hr200
Columbia$31K$15.08/hr540
St. Joseph$31K$14.73/hr190
Springfield$31K$14.71/hr900
Joplin$30K$14.42/hr360
Jefferson City$29K$13.84/hr380

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria salary range in Missouri

10th percentile (entry)
$26K
25th percentile
$28K
Median (50th)
$31K
75th percentile
$37K
90th percentile (senior)
$43K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a cooks, institution and cafeteria make in Missouri?

The median cooks, institution and cafeteria salary in Missouri is $30,920 per year ($14.86/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $36,450. Salaries range from $26,200 to $43,310.

What are the requirements to become a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Missouri?

Cooks, Institution and Cafeteria positions in Missouri typically require No formal educational credential. Missouri may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Missouri licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a cooks, institution and cafeteria afford to live in Missouri?

At the median salary of $30,920, a cooks, institution and cafeteria in Missouri would take home approximately $2,184/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 64.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Missouri?

The highest paying metro areas for cooks, institution and cafeterias in Missouri are St. Louis ($35,280), Kansas City ($34,760), Cape Girardeau ($31,810). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Missouri have state income tax for cooks, institution and cafeterias?

Yes, Missouri has a state income tax rate of approximately 2.2%. On a $30,920 salary, this means roughly $671/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.